Creeping Spurge

Euphorbia serpens (yoo-FOR-bee-uh SUR-penz)

Family: Euphorbiaceae Native Groundcover (<1 ft)

Creeping Spurge is an annual weed in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). It is low growing with a spreading habit and is often found in disturbed sites and urban environments. It is native to Southeastern Canada, Tropical and Subtropical areas of South America, and in the South Central United States. The specific epithet, serpens , is Latin and means "creeping or snake-like." Creeping spurge differs from the other prostrate spurges by rooting at the nodes of the stems when they touch the ground, allowing it to grow quickly and form dense mats. It has smaller, more rounded leaves. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade in dry, sandy, loamy or clay soils with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH, but it will grow in any type of soil. Wet soil conditions will often cause root rot. The leaves are opposite, cauline, ovate to oblong with entire margins and smooth surfaces. The leaves measure about 2 to 7 mm long, and each blade has short petiolate. The flowers are white and green with a solitary cyathia. They bloom in the summer in temperate areas, but in warmer climates, they may bloom year-round. The fruits are lobed, rounded capsules, and the seeds are ovoid and white to brown. Seedlings are very small but will flower when young. This plant is a prolific seeder. Seeds have limited or no dormancy and germinate quickly. As with all euphorbias, creeping spurge exudes a milky sap from the stems and leaves that can be toxic. This plant is best found in naturalized areas but is considered weedy in lawns and gardens. Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems: Creeping spurge has no serious insect or disease problems. Some people experience skin rashes from contact with the toxic sticky plant sap of euphorbias. Plants in this genus are toxic if ingested. Be sure to monitor small children and pets. Management Guidelines for Spurges : Because spurges flower when young and have little or no seed dormancy, weed populations can increase rapidly. Remove plants when young to reduce seed production. They are time-consuming to hand weed due to the number of seedlings that form. Some species may forcefully discharge seeds. Spurges are well-managed by most pre-emergent herbicides labeled for use. VIDEO Created by Laura Barth for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti," a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens. More information on Euphorbia .

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 67 attributes.